Make: Tula Arsenal (Soviet Union), imported by CDI
Model: SKS-45
Serial Number: Factory- ZP5182, Import- CCCP17289
Year of Manufacture: 1954
Caliber: 7.62c39mm
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: All serialized parts match (some force-matched during refurbishment) including internals and stock. The right side of the receiver is marked "SKS 7.62X39 MADE IN RUSSIA / S.D.I. SWAN. VT" and "CCCP17289".
Barrel Length: 20.25"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable, hooded post. The rear sight is a "U" tangent notch leaf sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is two piece wood stock with straight comb, steel buttplate with trap door for cleaning kit (included), semi-pistol grip, vented upper handguard, sling rings, and cut out for the included cleaning rod. The bayonet is missing. Some markings on the stock have been struck with a matching number stamped when refurbished. There is light handling wear. There are a couple of light scratches and compression marks. There is a patch-repair at the left-rear of the receiver. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 12.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition as refurbished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refurbished
Bore Condition: The chrome-lined bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its current metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling wear. There is light operational wear. There are some light scratches and thinning throughout. There are light nicks on the barrel. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition as arsenal refurbished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the attached canvas sling and cleaning kit in the buttstock.
Our Assessment: The Tula Arsenal SKS-45 is a classic Cold War-era semi-automatic carbine designed by Sergei Simonov and adopted by the Soviet Union in the mid-1940s. Serving as a transitional rifle between traditional bolt-action service arms and later fully automatic platforms, the SKS combined a rugged tilting-bolt system with a fixed magazine and simple controls, earning a reputation for reliability in military service. Chambered in 7.62x39mm, introduced during World War II, the SKS offered a balance of manageable recoil and effective ballistic performance, helping define the intermediate cartridge concept that would dominate postwar infantry doctrine.
This 1954 Tula example presents in strong overall condition, showing evidence of arsenal refurbishment while retaining a high level of finish with only light handling and operational wear. The stock remains in fine shape with minimal marks and no structural issues, complemented by included accessories such as the cleaning kit and sling. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and only light fouling present, indicating solid preservation. While the bayonet is absent, the rifle otherwise maintains its original configuration, with matching and force-matched serialized components supporting its authenticity. Altogether, this SKS-45 represents a well-maintained example of a Soviet service carbine from the early Cold War period. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
